This year’s Americanafest festival and conference — Tuesday, Sept. 19-Saturday, Sept. 23 — features over 200 artists and bands, 70+ panel sessions, and special events across 48 Nashville venues (read: there’s a lot to unpack). Here’s what to know as the 23rd annual event gets underway soon:

Americanafest 101

There are three ways to experience Americanafest: Conference + Festival Pass (access to panels, showcases, and all special events), Festival Pass (access to nightly showcases and special events), and general admission (first come, first serve tickets for venues not yet at capacity — typically $20-$25 per event).

Whether you have your pass in hand or you’re opting for the “I’ll take my chances” approach, download the mobile app or bookmark the schedule. It’s interactive and can be filtered by day, event type, and venue.

The festival’s hallmark event is the 2023 Americana Honors & Awards at Ryman Auditorium on Wednesday, Sept. 20. Tickets are still available (it's not included with passes). See this year’s nominees + honorees.

Nashville's own The Wild Features will headline the Americanafest showcase at Musicians Corner. | Photo provided

Free events during Americanafest

Put these free events on your calendar and stay tuned for other happenings.

Americanafest Day Stage | Wednesday, Sept. 20-Friday, Sept. 22 | 12-5 p.m. | Eastside Bowl, 1508A Gallatin Pk. S. | WMOT hosts three days of live music with performances by Brandy Clark, Bobby Rush, Maggie Rose, and more — attendees are encouraged to become WMOT members.

The Buzz | Thursday, Sept. 21 | 12-7 p.m. | Acme Feed & Seed, 101 Broadway | Visit Acme's rooftop for a showcase by emerging West Coast Americana and country artists.

Musicians Corner x Americanafest | Friday, Sept. 22 | 3-9 p.m. | Centennial Park, 2500 West End Ave. | Celebrate the 25th anniversary of New West Records with performances by The Wild Feathers, The Secret Sisters, Buddy Miller, Rodney Crowell Trio, and more.